| The objectives of this project were to enhance teachers' awareness of indicators of child maltreatment, and to increase the likelihood that teachers would adhere to their mandatory reporting duties. A comprehensive literature review was conducted in order to gather data regarding the legal requirements of mandated reporters, identify indicators of child abuse based upon research articles, and review existing curriculum addressing educators as mandated reporters. A preliminary draft of the manual was submitted to expert reviewers for input and critique, and subsequently modified to reflect their feedback. A sample of teachers was then given the opportunity to review the edited manual, and provide feedback regarding its usefulness, relevance and application within the school setting. Responses from teachers were analyzed and reported on in order to determine the effectiveness of the manual. According to the results of the two sample groups, an overall positive assessment of the resource manual was achieved. Both the expert and teacher reviewers found the manual to be an effective tool in helping teachers recognize the indicators of child maltreatment, and understand their mandated reporting duties. A final draft of the manual was generated. The manual can be used as a reference or training tool for educators designed to provide information regarding mandated reporting duties, and how to recognize the symptoms of abuse. Having this information available in simple, accessible, and bulleted format will ensure its' accessibility and use by the average teacher.;Keywords: child maltreatment, mandated reporters, physical abuse, neglect, medical neglect, sexual abuse, emotional abuse. |
